Remembering Keith Welch Paris: A Life Lived at Full Speed
Billings, MT – May 7, 2024 – Keith Welch Paris, a man known for living life to it’s fullest, has passed away. Mr. Paris was a chef, an Eagle Scout, an accomplished guitar player, and an adventurous spirit. His devotion to his family and friends was as notable as his many passions, including backpacking and fishing. Further details about the life of Keith Welch Paris can be found below.
Remembering Keith Welch Paris: A Life Lived at Full Speed
Keith Welch Paris,born Oct. 3, 1966, in Salt Lake City, passed away May 24, 2025, in the Big Horn Mountains. He was 58.
A Talented Chef and Dedicated Family Man
Mr. Paris, son of Charles W. Paris and the late Sharon Peterson Paris, was known for his culinary talents.He worked in restaurants from the Midwest to the West Coast, taking immense pride in his cooking. His dedication extended beyond the professional kitchen, as he cherished serving meals to his family. His rib recipe is a family favourite,
a testament to his skill and love.
In 2020, Mr. Paris transitioned from the culinary world to the hardware business, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Did You Know?
The Big Horn Mountains, where Mr. Paris passed away, are known for their rugged beauty and challenging terrain, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
An Outdoorsman and Adventurer
An Eagle Scout, Mr. Paris possessed a deep love for the outdoors. Backpacking and fishing were among his favorite pastimes,and he guarded his secret fishing spots
jealously,sharing them only with select friends and family. He embraced life with enthusiasm, never shying away from adventure. From bikes and motorcycles to snowmobiles and downhill skiing,Mr. Paris lived life at full speed.
A Generous Spirit and Loving Uncle
Beyond his adventurous pursuits, Mr. Paris was known for his generosity and thoughtfulness. He maintained close ties with his family, calling them regularly and showing genuine interest in the lives of his nieces and nephews. He delighted in showering his youngest niece and nephew with treats, including the occasional kid-sized shopping cart spree at the hardware store.
Pro Tip: Preserving Family Recipes
Documenting and sharing family recipes is a wonderful way to honor loved ones and keep their memory alive. Consider creating a family cookbook or sharing recipes online.
A Passion for Music
Mr. Paris’s true passion was the guitar.An accomplished musician, he dedicated his life to perfecting his craft.He played in bands across the U.S., captivating audiences with his genuine rock star persona.
He also shared his knowledge by teaching music lessons, inspiring others to pursue their musical dreams. His extensive guitar collection was a source of immense pride and joy.
Family and Remembrance
Mr. Paris was preceded in death by his mother,Sharon,and sister,Laura. He is survived by his father, Charles W. Paris, four brothers, and three sisters: Michelle (Terry) and Dan (Angie) Billings; David (Amy), Troutdale, OR; brian (Ivy), Tempe, AZ; Susan, Marietta, GA; Tom (Lori), Forsyth, MT; and Emily (Charlie), Bozeman, MT. He is also lovingly remembered by 11 nephews and 11 nieces.
A private family memorial will be held in his honor.Mr.Paris will be laid to rest in Billings, MT.
Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to:
- Big Horn County Search & Rescue
- Washakie County Search and Rescue
